Today we collaborated to construct sentences that include context clues. We determined that it is important to include context clues to help readers understand the meaning of words.

What will you say to someone who writes a simple sentence?

Yesterday the fifth graders read an article about texting and driving and determined the problem that was identified in the article. We discussed that identifying the problem and solution in a text helps us become better readers, helps us understand the text, and helps us remember the text. We also discussed that the author may propose a solution, but we can form our own solutions as well.

Sometimes we are left with questions after reading and yesterday we formed three. I will list two. Who remembers the third question? Who has further questions?
Ticket Challenge: Find the answer to one of the questions and earn one ticket on Monday!

They are the following:
Which 6 states have not banned texting and driving?
How many people die every day from texting and driving?

Click on the picture below to read the article!

I am always pleased to hear that our class is keeping the PEACE even when I am not around. Today we were acknowledged for our wonderful behavior in the cafeteria by receiving the Silver Spoon! We are on a roll between our Fine Line Awards and Silver Spoon. How many times do you think we can earn the Silver Spoon Award this year? Make your prediction here!

This week the fourth graders have been fervently working on their personal narratives using the writing process and focusing on ideas, organization, and word choice. Since the computer lab has been unavailable due to testing, we had the opportunity to type our rough drafts using our new school laptops!

This is a thrilling experience, but requires us to be responsible. Below is a list of ground rules we created for when we are using our laptops.

This week we focused on word choice. Yesterday we formulated a list of synonyms for colors. Ticket Challenge: Write a descriptive sentence including context clues.

This week we have been studying idioms.
Ticket Challenge: Create a sentence using one of the idioms we studied today. Remember to include context clues and use the idiom correctly to earn two tickets!

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to meet many of your grandparents! We learned so much about their experience as children and how times have changed. One of my favorite moments was hearing how people communicated using a party line. In the past, groups of people shared one phone line to make calls. If someone was using the phone, you would have to wait until it ended to make your call. Now, many people have their own cell phone or house phone. Could you imagine sharing your phone number with another person? How interesting!

What was your favorite moment during Grandparent's Day? Share your thoughts here and have a fantastic weekend!